Slip and fall accidents are serious. Fractures, concussions, soft-tissue injuries, and even internal trauma can follow what seems like a minor incident. If you’ve been hurt in Stuart or anywhere in Florida, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health—and your claim.

Lance P. Richard, P.A. represents slip and fall victims across Florida, guiding clients from day one through medical care, documentation, insurance negotiations, and—if necessary—trial.

Step 1: Get Medical Care Now

Even if you feel “okay,” symptoms can surface hours or days later. Prompt treatment protects your health and creates critical medical documentation linking the fall to your injuries.

Step 2: Report the Incident—in Writing

Notify the property owner, manager, or appropriate authority right away and ask to complete an incident report. Keep a copy. If the fall occurred on public property, note the department or agency you alerted and when.

Step 3: Preserve Evidence

Document everything you can as soon as possible:

• Photos/video of the hazard (wet floor, uneven surface, poor lighting, debris)
• Exact location, date, and time
• Witness names and contact info
• The shoes/clothing you wore (store them safely)
• All medical visits, diagnoses, bills, and out-of-pocket costs

Do not discuss fault with the property’s insurer or sign any forms or releases before speaking with an attorney.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Hazards can appear in stores, restaurants, sidewalks, parking lots, apartment buildings, workplaces, and private homes. Frequent causes include spills without warning signs, recently mopped floors, loose rugs or mats, broken tiles, abrupt changes in flooring height, poor lighting, cluttered aisles, cracked pavement, and leaking refrigeration or plumbing.

Who May Be Liable?

In Florida premises liability cases, the responsible party is often the owner or party in control of the property who knew—or should have known—about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn you in time. Proving notice (actual or constructive), how long the hazard existed, and whether reasonable inspections were done can be pivotal.

Florida’s comparative fault rules may reduce a recovery if the defense claims you were partially at fault (e.g., distracted walking or ignoring visible warnings). Thorough investigation helps counter those arguments.

Damages You May Recover

• Medical expenses (ER, imaging, surgery, rehab, medication)
• Future care and therapy
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life
• Out-of-pocket costs (transportation, medical devices)
• In some cases, scarring/disfigurement damages

What Happens Next With Lance P. Richard, P.A.?

At your initial consultation, bring any documentation you have—incident report, photos, witness contacts, medical records/bills, and insurance correspondence. From there, Lance will:

• Investigate the scene, secure surveillance when available, and interview witnesses
• Preserve shoes/evidence, evaluate maintenance logs and inspection policies
• Coordinate with your treating providers to document injuries and future needs
• Handle all insurer communications and settlement negotiations
• File suit and litigate if the insurer won’t deal fairly

Time matters. Florida’s statute of limitations and notice requirements can bar claims if you wait too long.

Will My Case Settle or Go to Trial?

Many slip and fall cases settle. But preparing every case as if it will be tried is what drives fair results. As a seasoned courtroom lawyer, Lance knows how to cross-examine corporate representatives, expose safety lapses, and present the full impact of your injuries to a jury when necessary.

Don’t Sign Anything Before You Call

Insurance representatives may contact you quickly for a statement or a “fast” settlement. Those offers often undervalue medical needs and long-term consequences. Protect your rights first—speak with an attorney.

Talk to a Stuart Slip and Fall Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall, get experienced help now. Lance P. Richard, P.A. will guide you step-by-step and fight for the compensation you deserve.